What are the Best Bass Headphones in 2024?

There’s no one true “audiophile” sound. Different strokes for different folks, as they say. But oftentimes what gets most praise from the audiophile community are ones with “reference” or “neutral” sound. Having a neutral reference is great for having a way to compare headphones from each other. That said, plenty of audiophiles look for a more engaging and exciting sound. Some find this in brighter headphones with splashy treble. But undoubtedly, some of the most popular “fun” headphones out there are the bass-y ones. And luckily for listeners who want a little more bass in their headphones, we have a list of some of our favorite headphones for low end performance, broken down by price range. By the end of this list, you should have an idea of which bass headphone is best for you. 

Entry Level 

Fiio FT5

Starting things off in the entry level category is the Fiio FT5. The bass performance of the FiiO FT5 is a standout feature, delivering a dynamic and textured low-end response that sets it apart from its predecessor, the FT3. Thanks to its 90mm planar magnetic driver, the FT5 offers a bass experience with finesse and speed, particularly when using the leather ear pads. With these pads, the sub-bass rumble is palpable, providing a tactile vibration that enhances the overall immersion. The low end remains tight and controlled, with a natural timbre that never overwhelms the other frequencies. For those who prefer a more prominent mid-bass, the suede pads offer a thicker, more impactful low-end, though it comes at the expense of some balance. Overall, the FT5 delivers a refined and versatile bass performance, capable of adapting to different preferences with its interchangeable pads while maintaining clarity and depth across the lower frequencies.

Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X

The bass performance of the Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X stands out for its impactful and punchy delivery, making it an exciting listen, especially for those who enjoy a robust low-end response. While it doesn’t heavily emphasize sub-bass, the DT 700 Pro X reaches down into the lower frequencies with a solid, well-defined presence. The low end has a satisfying punch that adds energy and fullness to tracks, making it feel like a strong physical presence in the mix. However, this power does come at the expense of some accuracy, as the low end leans more toward creating an immersive experience rather than staying entirely neutral. The high lows are balanced effectively with the sub-bass, ensuring that the bass doesn’t overwhelm the mids or highs. This gives the DT 700 Pro X a lively bass response that may not be perfectly flat, but it delivers a satisfying depth that works well in both casual listening and studio applications.

Mid-Fi 

Audeze LCD-2 Classic Closed

The bass performance of the Audeze LCD-2 Classic Closed-Back headphones offers a strong, punchy low-end that is both energetic and extended. The bass has a natural, smooth texture that creates a solid foundation without overwhelming the rest of the frequency spectrum. With quick response times and impressive depth, the low frequencies exude power and cohesiveness, making tracks feel immersive, with kick drums sounding deep and impactful while maintaining clear separation from bass synths. The bass remains controlled and well-balanced, providing a satisfying sense of rumble and weight, making these headphones an excellent choice for listeners who appreciate a well-rounded and powerful low-end response without sacrificing overall clarity.

Fostex TH-616

The bass performance of the Fostex TH-616 is marked by its prominent and dynamic presence, providing a strong foundation for the overall sound signature. The sub-bass and mid-bass work harmoniously to offer satisfying depth and detail. The low-end response is rich with a hint of warmth, creating a thick tone at times without ever feeling overbearing. This gives the bass a sense of balance, ensuring that it remains integral to the structure of the music without overshadowing the mids and highs. The TH-616’s bass is dynamic and textured, enhancing the listening experience by adding weight and body to tracks while maintaining clarity and separation. It excels in offering a nuanced and well-defined low-end that supports the overall soundstage and musicality.

High End 

Focal Clear MG

The bass performance of the Focal Clear MG is both dynamic and versatile, offering a level of depth and clarity that elevates the listening experience. While the Clear MG is tuned for a neutral response, the bass comes through with surprising impact, particularly in the sub-bass region. Certain tracks reveal a deep, chest-pounding low-end that is both gratifying and controlled. The bass is not overpowering but remains present, providing just enough texture and resonance to enhance the overall sound without sacrificing detail. Whether it’s delivering a subtle low-end for classical music or offering a more powerful, energetic bass in electronic tracks, the Clear MG handles it with precision. This versatile bass response makes it suitable for a variety of genres. This adds to the headphone’s appeal for audiophiles seeking both balance and depth in the lower frequencies.

Fostex TH900 MK2 

The bass performance of the Fostex TH900mk2 is truly exceptional, delivering a deep, expansive low-end. The sub-bass extension is remarkable, providing a powerful, rumbling foundation that excels in electronic, pop, and hip-hop genres. Pop and R&B tracks showcase the headphones’ ability to reproduce bass with clarity and authority. It enhances the energy of the music with a dynamic and immersive low-end. The bottom end is quick and responsive, with excellent transient detail, allowing you to hear the distinct pitches and textures within the lower frequencies. This combination of depth, clarity, and punch makes the TH900mk2 a perfect choice for listeners who crave a powerful yet refined low end experience.

Top of the Line 

Final Audio D7000

The bass performance of the Final Audio D7000 is one of its most impressive features. It delivers a robust and impactful low-end that is both deep and detailed. The sub-bass extends with a powerful slam, making tracks feel dynamic and full-bodied, while maintaining excellent separation between the bassline and kick drum. This clarity and punch are especially enjoyable in bass-heavy genres, providing a rich, immersive experience. The D7000 excels in delivering not just quantity but also quality in the low frequencies. It offers a deep, controlled bass that adds substantial energy and weight to any track.

Audeze LCD-MX4

The bass response of the Audeze LCD-MX4 is characterized by a thick, creamy low-end. It provides a warm and smooth listening experience. With a gentle boost around 100Hz, the bass is broad and enveloping. It offers a rich tonal foundation that enhances the overall warmth of the sound signature. While the bass may not be the most precise or analytically accurate, it excels in creating an aesthetically pleasing and enjoyable experience. This dynamic low-frequency response adds depth to tracks without overwhelming the other frequencies. This makes it ideal for listeners who prioritize a lush and immersive sound over clinical precision. For genres like jazz, orchestral music, and even electronic, the bass gives the LCD-MX4 a distinct and engaging warmth that stands out.

Wireless

Sony WH-1000XM5

For audiophiles looking for a headphone with great bass for when they’re on the go, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is a great start. The Sony headphone continues to uphold the 1000X series’ reputation for powerful bass performance. The bass is deep, impactful, and creates an immersive experience across a wide range of genres. The default tuning may feel rich and dynamic for most. It offers a punchy and gripping bassline that adds life to each track. However, it can sometimes lean towards being too boomy for those seeking balance in more delicate tracks. Fortunately, Sony’s app provides robust EQ options. One is the Clear Bass feature, which allows users to fine-tune the low frequencies for greater control. Adjusting the bass and lower mids can help bring clarity while maintaining the power that the WH-1000XM5 is known for. This ensures the bass remains tight and well-defined without overwhelming the other elements in the mix. Overall, this new iteration continues to deliver a satisfying and full-bodied bass performance. This makes it ideal for those who prioritize a rich, bass-forward listening experience.

Focal Bathys

The Focal Bathys delivers a bass performance that stands out for its clarity and depth rather than sheer impact. Unlike many wireless headphones that emphasize thick, boomy bass, the Bathys takes a more refined approach. The bass is well-controlled, with a deep, resonant sub-bass that adds texture without overwhelming the mix. This restraint creates a realistic timbre, allowing the low frequencies to remain present and punchy while maintaining separation from the other elements of the sound. The Bathys’ bottom range profile is gripping without being overpowering, offering a balanced, immersive listening experience that favors precision over power. While it may lack the heavy-handed low tones of some competitors, the Bathys excels in providing a clear and dynamic low-end response. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a more nuanced and realistic bass performance.

Final Thoughts

The most important thing to an audiophile is that the music sounds the way you want it. For those who prefer a meatier, bass-driven sound, the headphones listed here should offer ample quantity and quality performance. Whether it’s refined but dynamic, or a more bombastic and exciting response, these options should have you covered.